Gaming display with moveable indicator and methods of use

ABSTRACT

A gaming apparatus for playing a game. The gaming apparatus includes a display device that has a moveable display surface with a plurality of indicia. A roller may support the display surface such that the display moves over the roller. The roller and the display surface may simulate a reel. A guide track may hold and guide the shape of the display surface. The guide track and display surface may simulate a reel. A display device actuator is coupled to and can move the display surface. A controller is in communication with the display device actuator and can position the display surface such that at least one of the indicia appearing on the display surface conveys a game outcome. A braking mechanism is coupled with the display surface and is adapted to brake the display surface.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent applicationSer. No. 60/913,474, filed Apr. 23, 2007, the contents of which isherein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to gaming devices and, more particularly,to a gaming device having at least one moveable indicator that indicatesa prize to a player.

BACKGROUND

Gaming devices are well known in the art and a large variety of gamingdevices have been developed. In general, gaming devices allow users orplayers to play a game. In many casino-type gaming devices, the outcomeof the game depends, at least in part, on a randomly generated event.For example, a gaming device may use a random-number generator togenerate a random or pseudo-random number (hereinafter, both types arereferred to as a “random number”).

The random number can be used to determine a game outcome. For example,the random number may be compared to a predefined table to determine acorresponding outcome of the event. If the random number falls within acertain range of numbers on the table, the player may win thecorresponding predefined prize. The table may also contain displayinformation that allows the gaming device to generate a display thatcorresponds to the outcome of the game. The gaming device may presentthe outcome of the game on a large variety of display devices, such asmechanical spinning reels or video screens.

Some gaming devices award bonus prizes in addition to prizes that areawarded in a primary game. Of course, the prize in the primary game maysimply be the opportunity to play the bonus game. A bonus prize isgenerally defined as a prize in addition to the prize obtained from theprimary game and that is awarded to the player when a predefined eventoccurs. An example of a bonus game can be found in U.S. Pat. No.5,848,932 to Adams. Adams discloses a primary game having three spinninggame reels and a bonus game having a bonus display with one spinningwheel. The spinning wheel is divided into multiple sections, and eachsection has a symbol representing a prize. When predetermined indiciaare displayed on the spinning game reels of the primary game, the wheelof the bonus display spins and stops. The bonus prize is displayed asthe symbol on the wheel being pointed to by a pointer. The bonus prizeis awarded in addition to any prizes awarded in the primary game.Another bonus game is disclosed in Baerlocher et al. (U.S. Pat. No.6,336,863). Baerlocher et al. discloses a slot machine with a bonusaward display. The bonus award display has a bonus wheel and amechanical, movable pointer.

One of the problems associated with the devices disclosed in thesereferences is that the outcome of the bonus game is communicated to theplayer almost immediately. When a bonus game is triggered, a bonus awardis selected, displayed, and awarded to the player. The player can seewhat the outcome of the game is immediately after the pointers havestopped moving. What has long been needed is a device that utilizesintermediate steps between the occurrence of the bonus event and theawarding of the bonus prize to add an additional element of anticipationand excitement for the players. It is further desired that theintermediate steps involve an eye-catching display. Another problemassociated with Adams and Baerlocher et al. is that they utilize a plaincombination of wheel and pointer. The applicants have discovered morethings that can be done to display devices to make them more attractiveand interesting to play.

Generally, bonus prizes are awarded in order to increase the excitementand enjoyment experienced by players, which attracts more players to thegame and encourages players to play longer. When this occurs, the gamingdevices tend to be more commercially successful relative to other gamingdevices. A shortcoming of present bonus games is that they do notsufficiently allow players to interact with the gaming device, includingduring bonus games.

Other attempts have been made to provide player interaction. U.S. Pat.No. 5,788,573 to Baerlocher et al. (hereinafter, “Baerlocher”) purportsto suggest a gaming device with an electronic “wheel of fortune game.”Several flippers appear to indicate positions on the wheel. Baerlocherappears to suggest that the player may be allowed to choose whichflipper is used to select an indicia on the wheel. However, the playerdoes not appear to have any control over the position of the flipper andthe flippers do not appear to be capable of moving to differentpositions.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,309,300 to Glavich (hereinafter, “Glavich”) and U.S.Pat. No. 6,439,995 to Hughs-Baird et al. (hereinafter, “Hughs-Baird”)purport to suggest a gaming system having a bonus feature where a playermay be allowed to select a number of selectable items, which may beprize representations, on a video display. Glavich and Hughs-Baird donot appear to suggest using prize indicators, moveable prize indicators,or allowing a player to position a prize indicator.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Advantages

The various embodiments of the present invention may, but do notnecessarily, achieve one or more of the following advantages:

provide a highly attractive and entertaining device for conductinggames;

provide a highly attractive and entertaining device for displayingprizes;

the ability to attract more patrons to play a game;

the ability to encourage players to play longer on a gaming apparatus;

provide at least one attractive prize indicator;

provide a unique combination of reel-type display and moveableindicator;

provide a display for displaying indicia on a first axis and a moveableindicator configured to indicate an indicium from a second axisorthogonal to the first axis;

allow players to control the movement of a prize indicator;

provide a moving display surface;

provide a moving display with a relatively long path length;

provide a display that allows for a relatively larger number of indiciato be displayed;

provide a display that allows for relatively larger indicia to bedisplayed;

creates additional suspense for players by increasing the length of timebetween the start of a game and the display of the game outcome;

allow players to control the movement of a moving display surface;

provide the illusion that the player can influence the outcome of agame;

provide a game that allows for more player interaction;

utilize intermediate steps between the occurrence of the bonus event andthe awarding of the bonus prize;

provide an additional element of anticipation and excitement forplayers;

provide a display surface that simulates a reel; and

provide a braking mechanism for a display surface.

These and other advantages may be realized by reference to the remainingportions of the specification, claims, and abstract.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a gaming apparatusthat includes a display device comprising a display surface. The displaysurface comprises a plurality of indicia. One or more display deviceactuators may be in communication with the display surface and may beconfigured to move the display surface on a first predetermined path. Amoveable indicator may be included that may be configured to indicate atleast one of the indicia appearing on the display surface. A moveableindicator actuator may be in communication with the moveable indicatorand may be configured to move the moveable indicator along a secondpredetermined path. A controller may be in communication with at leastone of the display device actuators and the moveable indicator actuator.The controller may be configured to position at least one of the displaydevice actuators and the movable indicator so that the movable indicatorindicates one of the indicia appearing on the display surface thatconveys a game outcome.

In at least one alternative embodiment, the present invention isdirected to a gaming method. A gaming device may be provided. The gamingdevice may comprise a moveable indicator and a moveable display surface.The moveable display surface may comprise a plurality of indicia. Aplayer may be allowed to place a wager.

The display surface may be moved along a first path. The moveableindicator may be moved along a second path. A game outcome is determinedthat may correspond to, and be indicated by, at least one indiciaappearing on the moveable display surface. The moveable indicator may bestopped. The display surface may be stopped. In at least one embodiment,when the display surface and the moveable indicator are stopped, themoveable indicator indicates an indicia on the moveable display surfacethat corresponds to the game outcome.

In an embodiment, the present invention comprises a gaming apparatus forplaying a game. The gaming apparatus includes a display device that hasa moveable display surface with a plurality of indicia. A rollersupports the display surface such that the display moves over theroller. The roller and the display surface simulate a reel. A displaydevice actuator is coupled to and can move the display surface. Acontroller is in communication with the display device actuator and canposition the display surface such that at least one of the indiciaappearing on the display surface conveys a game outcome. A brakingmechanism is coupled with the display surface and is adapted to brakethe display surface.

The above description sets forth, rather broadly, the more importantfeatures of the present invention so that the detailed description ofone embodiment that follows may be better understood and contributionsof the present invention to the art may be better appreciated. Thereare, of course, additional features of the invention that will bedescribed below and will form the subject matter of claims. In thisrespect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention indetail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details of the construction and to the arrangement ofthe components set forth in the following description or as illustratedin the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and ofbeing practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to beunderstood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are forthe purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain embodiments of the invention are shown in the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 a is substantially a front elevation view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 1 b is substantially a schematic diagram showing components of anembodiment of the gaming apparatus;

FIG. 2 a is substantially a partial perspective view of an embodiment ofa display device of a prize display;

FIG. 2 b is substantially a perspective view of the display device shownin FIG. 2 a with a band on which indicia are affixed;

FIG. 3 is substantially a side elevation view of one embodiment of apositioning mechanism of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 5 is substantially a front elevation view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 is substantially a front perspective view of an embodiment of agaming apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of an embodimentof a display device according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is substantially a front view of a gaming apparatus according tothe present invention, including a cut away view showing the interior ofthe gaming apparatus;

FIG. 10 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 11 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 13 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 14 is substantially a flowchart of a method according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 15 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 16 is substantially a perspective view of the gaming apparatus ofFIG. 15 with the housing removed;

FIG. 17 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is substantially a side view of a guide track and band;

FIG. 19 is substantially a cross-sectional view of a guide track andband;

FIG. 20 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 15-19;

FIG. 21 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 22 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is substantially a top view of one embodiment of a positioningmechanism of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 21-23;

FIG. 25 is substantially a flowchart of another gaming method accordingto the present invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 21-23;

FIG. 26 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 27 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of anotherembodiment of a gaming apparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 29 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of anotherembodiment of a gaming apparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 30 is substantially a flowchart of a gaming method according to thepresent invention using the apparatus of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of anotherembodiment of a gaming apparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 32 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of a gamingapparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 33 is substantially a perspective view of the gaming apparatus ofFIG. 32 with the housing removed;

FIG. 34 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of the gamingapparatus of FIG. 32;

FIG. 35 is substantially a flowchart of a bonus gaming method accordingto the present invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 32-34; and

FIG. 36 is substantially a flowchart of a base gaming method accordingto the present invention using the apparatus of FIGS. 32-34.

DESCRIPTION OF AT LEAST ONE EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

In the following detailed description of at least one embodiment of thepresent invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, whichform a part of this application. The drawings show, by way ofillustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may bepracticed. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilizedand structural changes may be made without departing from the scope ofthe present invention.

As seen in FIG. 1 a, the present invention comprises a gaming apparatus,generally indicated by reference number 10. In at least one embodiment,gaming apparatus 10 comprises a second display or display device 12 anda primary gaming device 14. Primary gaming device 14 may be any of alarge number of devices that are adapted to allow players to play agame, such as gaming devices typically found in arcade and casinoenvironments, including arcade games, video games, gambling machines,video poker machines, slot machines, etc. In at least one embodiment,gaming device 14 is further adapted to allow a player to place a wagerand play a game, such as a slot machine.

Gaming device 14 may include a value acceptor for accepting value(including currency and/or currency equivalents), such as a coin slot16, a card reader 18, or a voucher reader 19. In addition, a payoutmechanism (not shown) and a coin receptacle 20 may be provided forawarding prizes or for dispensing value to players cashing out andretiring from a game. A printer (not shown) may also be provided forprinting out cashless vouchers (not shown). A handle 22 and a button 24may be provided for activating gaming device 14 to begin a game. A paytable (not shown) may further be provided to allow a player to see whatsymbol or combination of symbols provide a winning event. In at leastone embodiment, gaming device 14 may be a S2000 or S Plus model gamingdevice manufactured by International Game Technology in Reno, Nev.

Gaming device 14 may further include a gaming outcome display 28 thatmay be positioned in front of the gaming device 14 so that a player (notshown) playing gaming device 14 can see gaming outcome display 28.Gaming outcome display 28 may utilize physical game reels 30, 32, and34. Game reels 30, 32, and 34 may be attached to a drive mechanism (notshown) of gaming device 14 to rotate the reels in a manner well known inthe art. Each game reel 30, 32, and 34 may have a plurality of symbolspositioned on the circumference of each game reel 30, 32, and 34. Gamereels 30, 32, and 34 may be positioned side-by-side with coincident axesof rotation and a portion of their individual circumferences may faceoutward from gaming device 14.

A panel 36 may cover game reels 30, 32, and 34 such that only a portionof their individual circumferences are shown to the player. At least onesymbol from any of game reels 30, 32, and 34 may be used to display agame outcome. At least one pay line 38 may be provided for the player touse in determining a game outcome based on the symbol or a combinationof symbols positioned thereon. In an alternative embodiment, gamingoutcome display 28 utilizes a video display (not shown) displayingimages of game reels and an image of at least one pay line. A videodisplay may also display game symbols in many other formats andarrangements, such as playing cards. Of course, the invention is notlimited to any particular type of gaming outcome display 28. Those ofskill in the art will recognize that many different types of gamingoutcome displays could be substituted without departing from the scopeof the present invention.

Gaming apparatus 10 may include a second display device or prize display12 configured to display at least one game and prize to a player. In atleast one embodiment, second display 12 is configured to display a bonusgame and at least one bonus prize to the player. In other embodiments,second display 12 may provide a primary game. Alternatively, seconddisplay 12 may be a stand-alone device allowing a player to place awager and play a game.

In at least one embodiment, second display 12 is attached to gamingdevice 14 and positioned on top of gaming device 14. In otherembodiments (not shown), second display 12 may be separate from gamingdevice 14 but in communication with gaming device 14. In thisembodiment, second display 12 may be in communication with a pluralityof different gaming devices 14 via a computer network in a manner thatis well known in the art. Second display 12 may also be positionedadjacent to or remote from gaming device 14. In other embodiments,second display 12 is a stand-alone display not in communication withgaming device 14, and it may be capable of independently acceptingwagers, conducting games, and awarding prizes to a player.

With continued reference to FIG. 1 a, second display 12 may comprise ahousing 40. Housing 40 may be arc-shaped and comprise a plurality ofwalls defining an internal space or cavity. Of course, housing 40 may bemade in many different shapes. Second display 12 also may have anindicator 43. Indicator 43 may be a variety of indicators, including twoand three-dimensional indicators.

Indicator 43 and display device 42 may be positioned within housing 40.Indicator 43 may be configured to move vertically (up and down) relativeto second display 12 in response to signals sent either by a controller(not shown) or a combination of an input device (not shown) and acontroller (not shown). The number of indicators 43 may vary, and thedirection of their movement may vary, and may include horizontal,zigzag, and/or diagonal movements.

The shape or appearance of indicator 43 may be designed in various formsand preferably according to a theme of a game. In the example shown inFIG. 1 a, the theme of the game is a gaming device that awards playerswith vacations. Accordingly, indicator 43 is in the form of avacationing person in a swimming outfit and in a swimming floatationtube. Indicator 43 may include a pointer portion 64. Pointer portion 64may be configured to point to at least one of indicia 44. Alternatively,indicator 43 may itself be a pointer, such as an arrow. The presentinvention is not limited to any particular type of indicator or pointer,or any particular representation of an indicator or pointer.

Indicia 44 may be affixed, imprinted, engraved, or otherwise representedon a display device 42. Display device 42 may have indicia 44 arrangedin rows 44 a-c. Each row 44 a-c may include multiple indicia 44. Indicia44 may represent various things, including prize amounts, multipliers, adescription or representation of merchandise or services, progressiveprizes, or jackpot prizes. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 a, displaydevice 42 is configured to present moveable indicia 44, which may movein various directions. As shown in FIG. 1 a, indicia 44 movehorizontally, or on a rotational axis parallel to the vertical movementof indicator 43. Of course, indicia 44 could be configured to move upand down, that is, display device 42 may have a horizontal rotationalaxis.

Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide display devices42 with indicia 44 moving on a first axis and an indicator 43 moving ona second axis, wherein the moveable indicator 43 is able to indicate oneof the indicia 44 on the display device, which may be configured to moveon an axis orthogonal to the axis of indicator 43.

Referring now to FIG. 1 b, a schematic diagram of some components thatmay be included in certain embodiments of gaming apparatus 10 (FIG. 1 a)is shown. Gaming apparatus 10 may include a value acceptor such as coinslot 16, card reader 18 or voucher reader 19 configured to accept valuefrom the player in the form of paper currency, coins, player cards,tickets, vouchers, tokens, or other forms of value. The value acceptor16, 18 or 19 may be in communication with a controller 51. Controller 51may be in communication with an input device 24. Controller 51 maydetect insertion of value into the value acceptor and may prompt theplayer to start a game by activating input device 24. Once controller 51senses a signal to start the game, controller 51 may be configured toproduce a random number and activate a reel mechanism 53 of gamingdevice 14. Reel mechanism 53 may be configured to display indicia(including symbols, characters, numbers, letters, pictures, and thelike) on reels 30, 32, and 34 (FIG. 1 a) according to the random numbergenerated by controller 51. Alternatively, controller 51 may beconfigured to produce a random number and activate video display 55 ofgaming device 14. The video display of reels 55 may be configured todisplay indicia in video form according to the random number generatedby controller 51. The primary game of gaming device 14, whether inphysical form or in video form, is not limited to reel-type games, butmay include card games, dominoes, roulette, craps, baccarat, and othergames.

Gaming apparatus 10 may further include speakers 69 and 70, housinglights 59, display device 42, indicator 43, and pointer portion 64 incommunication with controller 51. Controller 51 may store bonus eventinformation and may have the ability to detect bonus events.

Upon an occurrence of a bonus event, controller 51 may activate speakers69 and 70, housing lights 59, and display device 42, which causesindicia 44 to move. Controller 51 may cause indicator 43 to move aroundan area adjacent to display device 42. Controller 51 may then causeindicator 43 to stop, and pointer portion 64 to point to one of theindicia 44 on display device 42. Housing lights 59 and speakers 69 and70 together may create a festive and lively winning atmosphere to elicitinterest and entertainment from both the player and adjacent patrons.

In at least one embodiment, when gaming apparatus 10 is not in use,indicator 43, housing lights 59, and display speakers 69, 70 may beactivated by controller 51 in an attract mode. Housing lights 59 mayoperate, blink or flash, and indicator 43 may dance or move in achoreographed manner according to music coming from speakers 69 and 70.It may be desirable that indicator 43 not point to one of indicia 44 atthe conclusion of the attract mode in order that players close to gamingdevice 10 do not mistakenly believe they are entitled to a prize.Controller 51 may activate display device 42 and indicator 43 upon theoccurrence of a bonus event.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 a and 2 b, in at least one embodiment, displaydevice 42 (FIG. 1 a) comprises a flat, i.e. planar piece of material orband 46 wrapped around a plurality of rollers 48 and 50. Rollers 48 and50 rotate band 46 about an axis 47. Rollers 48 and 50 may be rotatablyconnected to chassis 52 and 54 and may be connected to an actuator (notshown). Band 46 has indicia 44 thereon. Indicia 44 may be affixed toband 46 by various methods. Indicia 44 may be imprinted on band 46 indifferent configurations depending on the desired appearance of indicia44 when band 46 is presented on second display 12 (FIG. 1 a). In theembodiment shown in FIG. 1 a, band 46 may move from left to rightrelative to second display 12 or vice-versa. Thus, indicia 44 aredisplayed in horizontal rows.

In at least one embodiment, a light matrix 56 is positioned behind band46 to back-light indicia 44. Light matrix 56 may comprise light emittingdiodes (LEDs), fluorescent lights, incandescent lights, or otherillumination devices that may make band 46 more attractive. A suitabledisplay device 42 (FIGS. 1 a and 1 b) may be obtained from StarpointElectronics Ltd. of Chessington, UK (model FM2).

In another embodiment, display device 42 (FIGS. 1 a and 1 b) maycomprise at least one conventional reel assembly (not shown). Aconventional reel assembly typically includes at least one chassis, anaxle attached to the chassis, and a reel attached to the axle. The reeland chassis are typically coupled to an actuator that drives the axle,thereby rotating the reel. The reel typically has a strip of materialattached to the circumference of the reel. Indicia are typically affixedto the strip of material by methods known in the art. Conventional reelassemblies may be joined in series, typically in a set of three.

The reel assembly may be positioned within housing 40 (FIG. 1 a) so thatthe reel rotates about either a horizontal or vertical axis. Displaydevice 42 may utilize the reel assemblies described in co-pending U.S.application Ser. No. 09/894,197, filed Jul. 27, 2001 and U.S.application Ser. No. 09/968,952, filed Oct. 1, 2001, which areincorporated herein by reference. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/894,197discloses reel shelf assemblies arranged vertically so that each reelrotates about a vertical axis. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/968,952discloses reel shelf assemblies having reels that are positioned at anangle relative to each other, side-by-side so that their chassis areaway from the two reels positioned adjacent to each other, orcombinations thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 3, indicator 43 (FIG. 1 a) may be coupled to apositioning mechanism 72 by a bracket 74. Positioning mechanism 72 maybe located within the confines of housing 40. A slot 76 in the frontwall of housing 40 may be provided, which allows bracket 74 to passthrough the front wall. Positioning mechanism 72 may comprise a wormgear 78 rotatable by an actuator 80. In at least one embodiment,actuator 80 is attached to a first wheel 84. Worm gear 78 may beattached to a second wheel 86. A drive belt 82 may rotate around thefirst wheel 84 and second wheel 86, thereby connecting actuator 80 andworm gear 78. Positioning mechanism 72 may communicate with a controller81, which may store information regarding pre-determined positions ofband 46 (FIG. 2 b) of display device 42 (FIG. 1 a). Sensors 88 and 90may be in communication with controller 81 and may be provided to allowcontroller 81 to detect the position of indicator 43. Other devices maybe used to detect the position of indicator 43, such as optical readersand the like.

Referring now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a positioning mechanism150 is shown. Positioning mechanism 150 may be a vertically positionedworm gear 152 that is caused to rotate by an actuator 154. Indicator 43may be attached to worm gear 152 by a bracket 156 that is attached to anut 158 threaded on worm gear 152. A slot 160 may be provided in thefront wall of second display 12 (FIG. 1 a), which allows bracket 156 topass through the wall. Sensors 162 may be provided to allow a controller140, or other control mechanisms (not shown), to detect the position ofindicator 43. While indicator 43 is shown to move vertically in FIG. 4,it may be moved in any desired manner, including horizontally,diagonally, or in a non-linear fashion, such as in a rotating or zigzagmanner.

In another embodiment, a wheel (not shown) may be attached to actuator154. The periphery of the wheel may have at least one notch detectableby a sensor (not shown) and used by a bonus game controller 141 or aprimary game controller 140 to monitor the position of indicator 43.Worm gear 152 may be rotated together by actuator 154. The sensormonitors the position of indicator 43 by detecting the notch. Bonus gamecontroller 141 or primary game controller 140 may store informationpertaining to the number of times the sensor has detected the notch andthe corresponding position of moveable indicator 43. An opticalinterrupt (not shown) may be provided to reset the indicator positioninformation. The sensor may be an infrared source and detector. Inalternative embodiments, the periphery of the wheel may compriseportions with different reflective characteristics, such as absorbentpaint lines, instead of a notch on the wheel. Actuators 80 (FIG. 3) and154 may be a stepper motor, a servo motor, a gear motor, a solenoid, arack and pinion, or other actuators known in the art.

With continued reference to FIG. 4, an electronic primary gamecontroller 140 that utilizes a random number generator 142 may controlgaming device 14 (FIG. 1 a). Random number generator 142 produces arandom or pseudo random number for each game. The outcome of the gamemay be determined by comparing the random number produced by numbergenerator 142 to a table of outcomes stored in a memory and accessed bycontroller 140. A number of different tables of outcomes may be used anddifferent tables may be used for different games. The tables can bedesigned so that different prizes have different probabilities of beingawarded. Such design techniques are well known in gaming and aredescribed above. Examples of such designs are shown in U.S. Pat. No.4,448,419, issued to Telnaes, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,465, issued toDurham, which are hereby incorporated by reference. Controller 140 maycause gaming outcome display 28 (FIG. 1 a), e.g., game reels 30, 32, and34, to show the outcome that corresponds to the random number generatedby random number generator 142. Of course, gaming device 14 may operatein many other ways and still achieve the objects of the presentinvention.

Gaming device 14 may also be capable, via controller 140 or othercontrol mechanism (not shown), of producing a bonus-activating event.This event may be many different types of events. For example, abonus-activating event may comprise a game outcome such as displaying aparticular symbol, e.g., a “bonus” symbol, or combination of symbols,such as a “7” symbol on each of reels 30, 32, and 34 (FIG. 1 a). If thegame being played is poker based, the bonus-activating event may be anoccurrence of a certain hand, such as a royal flush. Furthermore, abonus-activating event may occur when a player accumulates a number ofsymbols or game outcomes over a number of separate game plays. Forexample, a bonus-activating event may occur when the player receivesthree “bonus” symbols during a period of time. The bonus-activatingevent may be based on an external event. For example, a bonus-activatingevent may occur when a group of players obtain a certain result. Sensors(not shown) may be provided external to gaming device 14 to detectexternal bonus-activating events.

Bonus game controller 141 may further be provided to detect when a bonusactivating event occurs in gaming device 14. Primary game controller 140may determine the outcome of each game, and when a bonus-activatingoutcome occurs, primary game controller 140 may transmit a signal tobonus game controller 141. Alternatively, bonus game controller 141 mayperiodically interrogate primary game controller 140. Bonus gamecontroller 141 and primary game controller 140 may be a singlecontroller or separate controllers. In at least one embodiment, bonusgame controller 141 may be the GAM 2000 controller, available from EagleEngineering of Pottstown, Pa.

The bonus prize may be determined by a random number generator (notshown) and a virtual pay table, such as the pay table described in U.S.Pat. No. 5,823,874 to Adams, which is hereby incorporated by reference.A simple pay table may also appear as follows:

TABLE 1 Random Number Amount Paid 0.00 to 0.50 $10.00 0.51 to 0.75$50.00 0.76 to 0.95 X2 0.96 to 1.00 $10,000.00

For example, if the random number generator produced 0.45 as the gameoutcome, the controller may cause indicator 43 (FIG. 1 a) to stop andpointer portion 64 (FIG. 1 a) to point to an indicium representing tendollars. Alternatively, if the random number generator produced a valueof 0.85, the controller may cause indicator 43 to stop and pointerportion 64 to point to one of the indicia 44 representing a multiplierof 2. The controller may then cause bonus meter 68 (FIG. 1 a) to display“10×2=20,” (assuming a base prize of ten dollars) and twenty dollarswould be awarded to the player.

The bonus selection process may be repeated for a predetermined numberof times to accumulate several bonus prizes that are added to form theaward to the game player. For example, the bonus game could be repeatedthree times to accumulate an award. The present invention is not limitedto the example pay table shown. Furthermore, different kinds of bonusprizes may be awarded, such as progressive prizes, jackpot prizes,merchandise, services, prize multipliers, and additional games. Othereffects may also be presented, such as pre-recorded sound from speakers69 and 70 (FIG. 1 a).

Speakers 69 and 70 may be configured to announce a prize a player haswon, play music during a prize-winning event, announce features of thegame offered by gaming apparatus 10, or play music to attract andentertain patrons. Additionally, a variety of graphics and lights,preferably designed according to a particular theme, are displayed onsecond display 12 (FIG. 1 a). If the awarded bonus prize is money, theamount of the bonus prize may be added to the player's credit meter (notshown), may be dispensed to the player via a voucher or other cashlessdevice, may be dispensed to coin receptacle 20 (FIG. 1 a), or anattendant may be summoned to award the prize to the player.

Referring now to FIG. 5, another embodiment of a gaming apparatus 100,similar to gaming apparatus 10 (FIG. 1 a), is shown. A prize display 102of gaming apparatus 100 may comprise display device 42 and a primarygaming device 14. Gaming device 14 here is the same as previouslydescribed in FIGS. 1-4. In this embodiment, band 46 is configured tomove vertically around a horizontal axis of rotation. Prize display 102also may comprise an indicator 104 that is similar to indicator 43 (seeFIG. 1 a). Indicator 104 may have an appearance that conforms to a themeof the game, which is a detective game in this embodiment. Thus,indicator 104 may look like a detective, such as a man wearing a trenchcoat and a hat. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, indicator 104moves horizontally. Indicator 104 may have a pointer portion 106. Asshown in FIG. 5, pointer portion 106 is in the form of the detective'smagnifying glass. The magnifying glass may be real or fake. If it isdesired to have a functioning magnifying glass, the magnifying glass maycomprise a standard magnifying lens, a fresnel lens, or other deviceknown in the art. Pointer portion 106 may be configured to substantiallycover an indicium selected by the controller (not shown) and magnify theindicium for the player to see. The indicium may represent, for example,either a criminal prize 108 or a clue prize 109. The mechanism fordriving indicator 43, described above and shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, may beused for driving indicator 104.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a gaming method 110 is shown wherein acontroller, such as controller 51, 81, 140 or bonus game controller 141,determines whether a prize event has occurred in step 112. If a prizeevent has occurred, the controller produces a random number at step 114.At step 116, the random number may be used to select a prize. At step118, the controller may activate display device 42. At step 120, thecontroller may cause indicator 43 or 104 to move. Optionally, at step122, the controller may allow a player to control the movement ofindicator 43 or 104 by prompting the player to press one or more buttons(such as a button to move indicator 104 right and a button to moveindicator 104 left) or another input device, such as a touch-pad, ajoystick, or a mouse. At step 124, the controller causes indicator 43 or104 to stop. Optionally, at step 126, the controller stops indicator 43or 104 upon the activation of an input device by the player. At step128, the controller causes the display device 42 to stop in a mannerthat would make indicator 43 or 104 point to the corresponding symbolthat would indicate the prize selected based on the random numberpreviously generated by the controller. At step 130, the prize may bedisplayed on the bonus meter. Steps 118 to 128 may be repeated apredetermined number of times, and the sum of the prize values may bedisplayed. Lights and sounds may be generated to create a festiveatmosphere. At step 132, a total prize may be awarded to the player. Thecumulative prize may be multiplied by a multiplier in order to obtainthe total prize. The multiplier may be fixed or randomly determined.

It is noted that the flowchart in FIG. 6 shows only one possibleembodiment. Some of the steps in the flowchart may be varied, changed inorder, or eliminated and still fall within the scope of the presentinvention. For example, in one embodiment, the band and/or the indicatormay move continuously throughout game play. Activating the display maytherefore comprise stopping one or both of the band and the indicator.

FIG. 7 shows an additional alternative embodiment of a gaming apparatusaccording to the present invention. FIG. 7 shows a gaming apparatus 200having a primary gaming device 202 and a bonus gaming display 204, whichmay display all or part of a bonus game or primary game. Primary gamingdevice 202 may be configured similarly to previously discussedembodiments, and may include a plurality of mechanical or video reels210 located on a primary game display 208. A plurality of indicia 212may appear on reels 210. A pay line 226 may be included to assistplayers in determining whether they have won the game. Value acceptors,including coin acceptor 228 and bill acceptor 224, may be included. Theplayer may activate the game via button 218 or arm 216.

Primary gaming device 202 may operate in conjunction with bonus gamingdisplay 204. The appearance of one or more indicia 212 on pay line 226may entitle the player to play bonus gaming display 204. An example ofbonus qualifying indicia is indicium 214.

Bonus gaming display 204 may contain a band of material 240 that rotatesabout a plurality of rollers 246. Band 240 may have a plurality ofindicia 244 appearing thereon. Indicia 244 may indicate various prizes.

Band 240 may resemble a printing press, including a magazine printingpress, a newspaper printing press, and a money printing press. As shownin FIG. 7, at least a portion of rollers 246 are arranged such that band240 is displayed at a first position 268 of gaming display 204 locatedtowards the front of gaming display 204. Band 240 then may be directedto a second position 270 of gaming display 204, such as passing behind acentral roller 274, where band 240 is located more in an interiorportion of gaming display 204. Band 240 may then be directed to a thirdposition 272, which may be in the same plane as first position 268,located towards the front of gaming display 204. In this way, band 240may appear to be passing through a printing press.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, band 240 appears to be a sheet of uncut papercurrency, such as might be produced by the U.S. Treasury Department.Indicia 244 may appear to be currency bills having various values.Indicia 244 may indicate prizes such as an award of currency or credits,merchandise, services, game play, jackpots, and progressive prizes. Band240 may have a variety of different indicia 244 imprinted, or otherwiseappearing thereon.

Band 240 may be constructed from any suitable material. Band 240 may beconstructed from a flexible material, such as various types of vinyl,plastic, rubber materials, and the like. The use of a flexible materialmay prevent band 240 from tearing or creasing when it is moved. Thematerial used to construct band 240 may be transparent or translucent,allowing band 240 to be backlit.

Band 240 may be coupled to a drive mechanism (not shown in FIG. 7) sothat band 240 may be rotated about rollers 246. In operation, band 240may be actuated prior to a bonus prize being awarded to the player ormay be caused to rotate continuously or periodically in order to enhanceattraction to players and patrons. Indicia 244 that may be awarded mayappear in a particular area, such as a display area 260, for display tothe player. Display area 260 may be lighted or otherwise brought to theplayer's attention.

In at least one embodiment, an indicator 250 is included that may pointto particular indicia 244. Indicator 250 may be configured to point toone of indicia 244 that conveys the outcome of gaming display 204. Asshown in FIG. 7, indicator 250 is moveable in a horizontal manner.However, gaming display 204 is not limited to any particularconfiguration, and indicator 250 may move vertically, diagonally, or ina non-linear manner, as desired by the game designer. Indicator 250 maybe lit, such as by lights 252, in order to make indicator 250 moreattractive and to call attention to indicator 250. In at least oneembodiment, indicator 250 is illuminated only when gaming display 204 isactive or when gaming display 204 is in an attract mode (such as hasbeen previously described).

At least one advantage of band 240, as illustrated in FIG. 7, is that itmay provide a relatively long path length. Accordingly, it may allow formore and/or larger indicia 244 to be included on band 240 than might beprovided on known alternative display devices such as circular reels.

FIG. 8 illustrates certain components of a band display 300 that may beincluded in a gaming device according to the present invention,including that depicted in FIG. 7. FIG. 8 illustrates band 240 wrappedaround a plurality of rollers 246. In at least one embodiment, allrollers 246 are idler rollers that guide band 240 about the interior ofgaming display 204 (FIG. 7). One suitable roller is model numberE8S001-01-ZZZZ available from Starpoint Electronics, Ltd. ofChessington, UK. A driven roller may be included to drive band 240.Driven roller 320 may be in communication with an actuator 310 in orderto drive rotation of driven roller 320. One suitable driven roller ismodel E8S002-01-ZZZZ from Starpoint.

In at least one embodiment, band 240 is driven by frictional contactwith roller 320. However, other arrangements may be substituted withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. For example, roller320 may have a portion with teeth (not shown) that could engage slots orholes (not shown) in band 240.

Actuator 310 may be any number of suitable actuators, such as motors,including stepper motors, gear motors, and servo motors. Actuator 310may rotate a shaft 312 in connection with a wheel 314. A belt 316 maylink wheel 314 to a shaft 318 of driven roller 320. Rotation of shaft312 drives wheel 314 which in turn drives belt 316. The rotational forceis passed from belt 316 to shaft 318. Rotation of shaft 318 may driverotation of driven roller 320. Frictional contact with rotating drivenroller 320 moves band 240. Optionally, an idler wheel or pulley (notshown) can be included on the opposing side of band 240 in order toincrease the frictional contact of band 240 with driven roller 320.

In another embodiment, actuator 310 may be a stepper motor rotating adrive gear (not shown). The drive gear may be in communication with aspur gear (not shown) driving an idler shaft (not shown). The idlershaft in turn may be in communication with driven roller 320. The idlershaft may also be used to help transfer power to the side of band 240not located by actuator 310.

In at least one embodiment, band 240 may pass over an area proximateindicator 250. As shown in FIG. 8, indicator 250 may be attached to aworm gear 340. Worm gear 340 may be in communication with a suitableactuator 332, such as a servo motor, stepper motor, or the like.Indicator 250 may be attached to a bracket 342. Bracket 342 may bethreadably attached to worm gear 340.

In at least one embodiment, indicator 250 includes one or more lights252 in order to call attention to indicator 250 and make indicator 250more attractive. Lights 252 may be of any suitable type, including lightemitting diodes (LEDs). Both lights 252 and actuator 332 may be incommunication with a controller, such as controller 360.

Controller 360 may direct lights 252 to illuminate and deactivate inaccordance with game events, such as the execution of an attract mode,or a game outcome qualifying a player to play gaming display 204.Controller 360 also may direct the movement of indicator 250. Forexample, controller 360 may move indicator 250 upon activation of gamingdisplay 204. Controller 360 may direct indicator 250 to stop, such aswhen a player activates a player input device 222 (FIG. 7).

Controller 360 also may determine the position of indicator 250, forexample if the controller is preset with the starting position ofindicator 250, controller 360 may track the position of indicator 250 byknowing in which direction (or directions) indicator 250 was moved, howfast it was moved, and for what period of time. Depending on theactuator 332 used, actuator 332 may provide feedback as to the positionof indicator 250 (for example, if an indexing stepper motor is used).

It may be beneficial to provide an additional position sensor forindicator 250. Those of skill in the art will recognize that varioustypes of sensors could be used to track the position of indicator 250.In one embodiment, optical sensors are used. For example, an infraredsignal generator (not shown) may be included on one side of worm gear340. An infrared detector (not shown) may be placed on the other side ofworm gear 340. When indicator 250 is not in between the signal generatorand detector, the detector detects the infrared signal. When indicator250 is interposed between the signal generator and detector, thedetector does not detect a signal. Therefore, when the signal isinterrupted, controller 360 knows the position of indicator 250. Such apositioning system may be a useful way to calibrate indicator 250.

Other systems can be used, or additional signal generators and detectorsused, including those that may allow for constant tracking of indicator250. For example, an optical sensor (not shown) may be attached tobracket 342. Optically readable indicia (not shown) and patterns may beplaced along worm gear 340 or elsewhere. As bracket 342 travels alongworm gear 340 the sensor may read the indicia or patterns andcommunicate the position of indicator 250 to controller 360.

Controller 360 may also be in communication with a housing 328 that mayhave a plurality of lights 330. Lights 330 may be any suitableillumination device, including LEDs, fluorescent lamps, and incandescentlamps. Lights 330 may be arranged in an array 334. Lights 330 may beactivated by signals sent from controller 360 in response to gameevents. Lights 330 may be used to backlight band 240. Illumination ofband 240 may result in a more appealing look for gaming display 204 andcall more attention to the area of band 240 on which indicator 250 mayindicate a prize.

Housing 328 may also contain a guide 326. Guide 326 may provide asurface to help position band 240. For example, guide 326 may helpmaintain band 240 in a taut position, and keep band 240 from wrinkling,creasing, tearing, or getting caught in any of the actuating mechanisms,including the actuating mechanism for indicator 250.

Controller 360 may also be in communication with a positioning systemfor band 240. It may be beneficial to be able to track the position ofband 240. For example, when a game outcome is determined, it isimportant to make sure that indicator 250 points to the appropriateindicia on band 240.

Many suitable positioning systems can be used, including those used forindicator 250. For example, an infrared signal source 362 can beincluded on one side of band 240. An infrared detector 364 may belocated on the opposing side of band 240. Infrared blocking materialsmay be placed at one or more locations on band 240. By tracking when theinfrared signal is blocked, controller 360 may be able to calibrateand/or constantly track the position of band 240 and any indiciaappearing thereon.

In an alternative embodiment, a side of band 240 contains a series ofholes (not shown), cut-out portions, or similar optical interrupts. Theoptical interrupts may be read by an optical reader (not shown). Theoptical interrupts may convey the position of band 240 to controller360.

Gaming display 204 may be calibrated by the gaming operator from time totime, and position data from actuator 310, such as an indexing steppermotor, may also be used to track the position of band 240.

In at least one embodiment, the components of band display 300 shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 are modular in nature. That is, band 240, indicator 250,and their actuating mechanisms may be added and removed from a gamingdevice as a unit. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a hook 304 having aslot 306 may be attached to the frame of band display 300, such as byfasteners 308, such as bolts or rivets. A receiver (not shown), such asa bar, may be provided within the gaming device for attachment to hook304.

FIG. 9 presents an alternative view of a gaming device according to thepresent invention. A portion 370 is a cut away view of the inner portionof an embodiment of gaming display 204. A portion 372 is an outer viewof the embodiment.

In FIG. 9, it can be seen that in at least one embodiment, rollers 246are fitted with a plurality of wheels 380. Wheels 380 may be made of amaterial that maintains strong frictional contact with band 240. Wheels380 are preferably constructed of, or coated with, a relativelynon-abrasive material so as not to damage band 240. For example, wheels380 may be made of various types of rubber, plastic, and similarmaterials.

Rollers 246 may be provided with a tensioning system that may both helpmaintain the position of rollers 246, and maintain pressure on rollers246 in order to ensure that band 240 is taut. The tensioning system mayinclude a base 381, which may be mounted to the frame of gaming display204 (FIG. 7). Base 381 may be coupled to a biasing device 383, such as aspring. Biasing device 383 may be coupled to a moveable mounting area385. Moveable mounting area 385 may be moved along a track 387. Moveablemounting area 385 may include a plate 389 that is mounted to biasingdevice 383.

Roller 246 may include a pin 391 and a shaft end 393. Pin 391 may beheld within a roller mounting area 395. Roller mounting area 395 mayinclude a raised area defining a hole (not shown). When roller 246 isinserted, biasing device 389 will push roller 246 against band 240.Roller 246 may then rotate about pin 391 while keeping band 240 taut.

FIG. 9 also provides additional detail for a suitable actuator andpositioning system for indicator 250 within housing 328. As waspreviously described, indicator 250 may be attached to worm gear 340 bybracket 342. Worm gear 340 may be actuated by actuator 332. Actuator 332may be attached to a pulley 382 (which may be a timing pulley). A belt384 (which may be a timing belt) may be attached to pulley 382 (whichmay be a timing pulley) and in contact with a shaft end 386 of worm gear340. A positioning system, such as infrared signal generator 390 andinfrared detector 392, may be included in order to assist in trackingthe position of indicator 250. In at least one embodiment, actuator 332may be stepper motor model HT23-396, available from Applied MotionProducts of Watsonville, Calif.

In at least one embodiment, bracket 342 is configured to resist rotatingas it travels along worm gear 340. One way this may be achieved is toinclude a rail 343 that runs parallel to worm gear 340. Bracket 342 maybe slidably coupled to rail 343. Rail 343 will prevent bracket 342 fromrotating, while allowing linear movement along worm gear 340.

Turning now to portion 372 of FIG. 9, there is illustrated a number ofindicia 244 appearing on band 240. As shown in FIG. 9, indicia 244 arerepresentations of faux paper currency having various representations,though any suitable indicia 244 may be placed on band 240. Indicia 244may be chosen to be relevant to a theme of gaming apparatus 200 (FIG.7), or gaming display 204 (FIG. 7), such as the “Bank Roll” theme shownin FIGS. 7 and 9.

Indicia 244 may represent prizes that a player may be awarded. Forexample, indicia 394 may represent an amount of money or gaming credits.Indicia 396 may represent a multiplier by which the player's winningsfrom one or more gaming rounds may be multiplied. Indicia 398 mayrepresent special awards, such as a good, a service, a jackpot, or aprogressive amount. Of course, indicia 244 may represent many otherprizes without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In certain embodiments, portion 372 may include a slot 388. A portion ofindicator 250 or bracket 342 may extend through slot 388. Slot 388 mayallow indicator 250 to be displayed to the player, and actuated, buthides the inner workings of gaming display 204 (FIG. 7) from the player.Of course, other means of hiding the inner workings of gaming display204, including the actuation system for indicator 250, from the playercould be used. For example, rather than a slot, the actuation mechanismcould be located below the area of gaming display 204 viewable by theplayer. Indicator 250 could be attached to the actuation mechanism inthis area, and then extend upward into the area viewable by the player.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 9, in certain embodiments indicator 250moves along a first axis, such as the axis defined by the worm gear 340.Band 240 (which may function as a display surface) moves along a secondaxis, such as an axis defined by the plane of the band 240. Indicia 244appearing on band 240 move along the second axis as band 240 moves. Incertain embodiments, the first axis is orthogonal to the second axis.The first and second axes may be used to define a coordinate system,with each of the indicia 244 appearing on band 240 corresponding to aspecific coordinate in the system. Controller 360 may be programmed withthe coordinates of each of the indicia 244, allowing controller 360 toensure that the proper indicium or indicia 244 corresponding to a gameoutcome is or are displayed once band 240 and indicator 250 are stopped.

One method of operation 500 of an embodiment of the present invention,such as the device depicted in FIG. 7, is illustrated in FIG. 10. A gameis presented to a player in step 502. At decision 504, method 500 checksto see if the player has placed a wager. If not, method 500 returns tostep 502.

If the player places a wager at decision 504, method 500 proceeds todetermine a game outcome in step 506. The outcome is presented to theplayer at step 508. At decision 510, method 500 checks to see if thegame outcome determined in step 506 is an outcome qualifying the playerto play a bonus game. If not, method 500 proceeds to step 512 and awardsthe player any prizes awarded according the game outcome determined instep 506, and returns to step 502.

If it is determined in decision 510 that the game outcome of step 506qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 500 proceeds to step 514.At step 514, gaming display 204 is activated. This may includeactivation of band 240, indicator 250, and player input device 222.Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event more excitingto the player and those around the player, as well as to call attentionto the device.

Method 500 then proceeds to step 516 where band 240 is actuated. Method500 then proceeds to step 518, where the player may be allowed tocontrol the movement of indicator 250 using player input device 222. Forexample, in the device depicted in FIG. 7, the player may be allowed tomove the indicator left and right, and to stop the indicator at adesired location.

Method 500 proceeds to decision 520, which checks to see whetherindicator 250 has been stopped. If indicator 250 has not been stopped,method 500 returns to step 516 and continues to move band 240 and allowthe player to move indicator 250.

If decision 520 determines that the player has stopped indicator 250,method 500 proceeds to step 522. At step 522, a controller (which may becontroller 51, 81, 140, 141, or 360) continues to move band 240 untilthe indicium corresponding to the game outcome is indicated by indicator250. Method 500 then awards any prizes to the player in step 524 andreturns to step 502.

Many variations of this method can be made without departing from thescope of the present invention. For example, the game outcome determinedin step 506 can include both the outcome of the primary game and thebonus game. Alternatively, the bonus game outcome can be determined in aseparate step once the bonus game begins.

FIG. 10 illustrates a method where band 240 moves at the same time aplayer is positioning indicator 250. In another embodiment, band 240 maybe stationary while the player positions indicator 250. Once the playerhas chosen a position for indicator 250, band 240 can be moved until theappropriate indicium is indicated by indicator 250.

The player could be allowed to select the position of indicator 250 in avariety of ways. For example, the player could be provided withdirectional buttons and a stop button. Alternatively, indicator 250could be moved in an automated fashion by controller 360. The playercould activate a stop button when indicator 250 is at the position theplayer desires.

As may be apparent from the above description, it may be desirable toarrange indicia 244 on band 240 such that enough of each type of indicia244 are included in order that any indicia can be indicated by indicator250 at any position to which indicator 250 is moved. For example, in theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, indicia 244 are illustrated asappearing in a matrix of rows and columns, with indicator 250 beingpositionable at a particular column. Accordingly, it may be beneficialto have each at least one of the indicia 244 representing each prizethat may be awarded appear on at least one row of each column of band240.

An alternative method of operation is illustrated in FIG. 11. Steps602-612 may correspond to steps 502-512 described above. At step 614,gaming display 204 may be activated, including band 240, indicator 250,and player input device 222. Lights and sounds may be activated, aspreviously described. Band 240 and indicator 250 are moved at step 616.

Decision 618 checks to see whether player input device 222 has beenactivated. If player input device 222 has not been activated, method 600returns to step 616. If player input device 222 has been activated, band240 is stopped at step 620. Band 240 may be stopped quickly or maygradually come to a stop.

Method 600 then proceeds to step 622. At step 622, indicator 250 ismoved to indicate the indicium or indicia conveying the outcome of thebonus game. Any prizes are awarded in step 624, and then method 600returns to step 602.

Method 600 may be configured to allow a player to stop band 240 in aspecific position, or simply to choose when band 240 will begin to stop.If the player is allowed to choose a specific position for band 240, itmay be desirable to have at least one of each prize represented byindicia 244 that may be awarded appear on each row of band 240. Ofcourse, if the player may not choose the exact position of band 240, itmay be less desirable to include every indicia 244 on each row. Indeed,not allowing the player to choose an exact position for band 240 mayallow a greater variety of indicia 244 to be presented on band 240.

Another gaming method 700 is illustrated in FIG. 12. Steps 702-712 maycorrespond to steps 502-512 and 602-612 described above. At step 714,one or more player input devices are activated that allow a player toselect one or more specific indicator positions. For example, indicia244 on band 240 could be formed in a plurality of columns. The playerinput device(s) may allow a player to position indicator 250 by aspecific column.

At step 716, method 700 checks to see if the player has provided input.If not, method 700 cycles back to step 714 until input is provided. Oncethe player has provided input, method 700 proceeds to step 718 and movesindicator 250 to the position selected by the player. At step 720, thedisplay is moved so that indicator 250 points to the indicium conveyingthe game outcome. Any prize or prizes are awarded in step 722 and thenmethod 700 may return to step 702.

In an alternative embodiment, the player may be allowed to choose aposition after the game is begun. In any embodiment, the player's choiceof position for indicator 250 might be reflected on band 240, such asilluminating a column of band 240 corresponding to the pre-set positionof indicator 250 chosen by the player.

Various additions, subtractions, and permutations of the steps in theabove described methods can be made without departing from the scope ofthe present invention. For example, the player may be allowed to selectboth the position of indicator 250 and to indicate when band 240 shouldbegin to stop (although not the final position of band 240). The morethe player is allowed to interact with primary gaming device 202, themore control over the outcome of the game the player may feel, which maymake the game more enjoyable to the player. However, regulatory concernsmay dictate that the player's perceived control be largely or completelyillusionary.

Methods of operating gaming display 204, including methods 500, 600, and700, may be set to automatically stop band 240 and/or indicator 250after a certain time. For example, controller 360 could be programmed toautomatically stop indicator 250 and/or band 240 after the passage of acertain amount of time, such as thirty seconds. While it may bebeneficial to give the player some interaction with gaming display 204,it may also be desirable to ensure that each game round completes in atimely fashion.

Certain embodiments of the present invention, such as method 800 of FIG.13, may employ no player input. Steps 802-812 may correspond to steps502-512 of FIG. 10. At step 814 indicator 250 is moved to a position,which may be randomly selected by controller 360. At step 816 band 240may be moved so that indicator 250 points to an indicium conveying thegame outcome. Any prizes may be awarded at step 818 before method 800returns to step 802. Steps 814 and 816 may be reversed or presentedsimultaneously. Also, band 240 could be randomly moved, with indicator250 being moved to indicate the game outcome.

Another method 900 of game play that may be used with embodiments of thepresent invention, including that of FIG. 5, is shown in FIG. 14. Method900 may award two types of prizes, illustrated in FIG. 5 as criminalprizes 108 or clue prizes 109, though the prizes could be called orrepresent various things, have different values than those that will bedescribed, and could be represented by images other than thosespecifically illustrated. After a game has begun, indicator 250 is movedat step 902. Band 46 is moved at step 904. A player input device isactivated and the gaming device waits for player input at decision 906.If no player input is provided, method 900 cycles back to step 902. Ifinput is provided, method 900 proceeds to step 908.

At step 908, indicator 250 is stopped. At step 910, band 46 is stoppedso that indicator 250 indicates the indicium conveying the game outcome.Decision 912 checks to see if the indicium indicates a clue prize or acriminal prize. If the indicium shows a criminal prize, method 900 addsa criminal prize to the base prize at step 914. The total prize isawarded to the player at step 916.

If decision 912 determines that the indicium is a clue prize, method 900proceeds to decision 918. Decision 918 checks to see whether the playerhas obtained a maximum number of clues, for example, 4. If not, method900 proceeds to step 920 and adds a clue prize to the base prize andgame play continues at step 902.

If decision 918 determines that the player has obtained the maximumnumber of clues, method 900 awards a jackpot prize at step 922 and gameplay ends.

Although embodiments of the invention described and depicted in FIGS.7-14 have been described as a bonus game in conjunction with a primarygame, the present invention is not so limited. For example, gamingdisplay 204 (FIG. 7) could be configured as a primary game. A playercould make a wager and gaming display 204 could indicate winning andlosing outcomes and dispense prizes accordingly. Also, rather than beingattached to a primary game, gaming display 204 could be located apartfrom primary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). Gaming display 204 could alsobe connected to multiple primary gaming devices 202. The presentinvention is not limited to a particular configuration orconfigurations.

Movable Belt with Guide Tracks Embodiment

With reference now to FIGS. 15-19, an additional embodiment of a gamingdevice 1500 according to the present invention is shown. Gaming device1500 has a gaming display device 1502. Gaming device 1500 can be a bonusgame that can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primarygaming device 202 as shown in FIG. 7. A front panel 1503 is mounted tohousing 1001.

Gaming display device 1502 can have a prize band 240 that is supportedfor rotational movement by rollers 246. Band 240 can have an outsidesurface 240A, an inner surface 240B, sides 240C and 240D and a displaysurface 241. Band 240 can be a flexible belt. Band 240 can be backlit bylights 330 that are mounted in a housing 328 as was previouslydescribed. Band 240 can have a display surface 241. Various indicia 244are arranged in rows 1560 and columns 1570 on display surface 241.Indicia 244 can be printed on band 240.

Controller 360 can rotatably control the position of band 240 usingactuator 310 driving driven roller 320 in the same manner as previouslydescribed for FIG. 7. The position of band 240 can be monitored bycontroller 360 using a sensor formed by source 362 and detector 364.

Gaming display device 1502 can include several belt or band guideportions or guide tracks 1520. Guide tracks 1520 can be mounted andextend along all or a portion of each side of band 240. Guide tracks1520 are used to guide and form band 240 into a variety of shapes. Forexample, guide tracks 1520 can guide band 240 inwardly such that aconcave area 1510 is formed by band 240. Guide tracks 1520 can alsoguide portions of band 240 into other shapes such as convex areas orvarious degrees of sloping or curved surfaces. Guide tracks 1520 can bemade of various materials such as metal or plastic. The use of guidetracks 1520 can eliminate the use of central roller 274 (FIG. 7). Guidetracks 1520 can shape band 240 into complex shapes that cannot be formedby the use of rollers alone. The use of guide tracks 1520 can alsoreduce wear on band 240.

FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of a guide track 1520. Guide track1520 can include side sections 1522 and 1524 that extend from an outerend section 1526. Inner ends 1528 and 1530 face toward band 240. A slot1534 is located between side sections 1522 and 1524. A rounded portion1536 is formed in guide track and has a round slot 1538.

A ball or bead 1550 is formed on sides 240C and 240D of band 240. Bead1550 fits into and is retained in round slot 1538. As band 240 is movedby controller 360 and actuator 310, bead 1550 slides along the length ofround slot 1538 and is moved inwardly to form concave area 1510 (FIG.18).

In one embodiment, opposite guide tracks need not be complementary butmay instead define different shapes such that additional bends andtwists may be provided to the band 240 to create additional effects.

While guide tracks 1520 were shown to shape the form of band 240, aseries of rollers (not shown) positioned on each side of the belt couldalso be used to shape the form of band 240.

A game winning outcome 1580 can be indicated by illuminating a portionor set of lights 330 behind band 240. In the example shown in FIG. 15,an indicium having a value of 60 credits is shown as the game winningoutcome 1580. Controller 360 can control and select the movement andposition of band 240 and further can control the illumination of lights330.

A method of operating gaming device 1500 of FIGS. 15-19 is shown in FIG.20. In method 2000, a player places a wager on a gaming device at step2002. At step 2004, the player plays a base game on a gaming device suchas primary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). At decision 2006, method 2000checks to see if the game outcome determined in step 2004 is an outcomequalifying the player to play a bonus game. If not, method 2000 proceedsto step 2008 and notifies the player of the game outcome determined instep 2004, and returns to step 2002.

If it is determined in step 2006 that the game outcome of step 2004qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 2000 proceeds to step2010. At step 2010, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 2012,gaming display device 1502 is activated. This may include activation ofband 240 and lights 330. Other lights and sounds may also be activatedto make the event more exciting to the player and those around theplayer, as well as to call attention to the device.

Method 2000 then proceeds to step 2014 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 2016, band 240 is stopped. A portion of lights 330 areilluminated behind one of the indicia 244 on band 240 at step 2018.Method 2000 then awards any prizes to the player in step 2020.

Waterfall Game Embodiment

With reference now to FIGS. 21-23, an additional embodiment of a gamingdevice 2100 according to the present invention is shown. Gaming device2100 has a gaming display 2102. Gaming device 2100 can be a bonus gamethat can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primarygaming device 202 as shown in FIG. 7. A front panel 1503 is mounted tohousing 1001.

Gaming display 2102 can have a prize band 240 that is supported forrotational movement by rollers 246 and guide tracks 1520. Band 240 canhave a display surface 241. Band 240 can be a flexible belt. Band 240can be driven by controller 360 and actuator 310. Band 240 can bebacklit by lights 330 that are mounted in a housing 328 as waspreviously described. Various indicia 2130 can be displayed at prizepositions 2125 on display surface 241. Prize positions 2125 can simulateor appear to be rocks printed on display surface 241.

Gaming device 2100 can have a game theme of a waterfall such as NiagaraFalls. Gaming device 2100 can include various waterfall features such asa falling river or rapids 2110, waterfall 2115 and a pool 2120. Displaysurface 241 can be printed to resemble water. When band 240 is moved,the water can appear to move to an observer. Pool 2120 can be formed bya panel mounted in front of band 240.

Falling river or rapids 2110 are formed by the combination of severalrollers 246 and several guide tracks 1520 at the top of display 2102.Rollers 246 and guide tracks 1520 cause band 240 to move or undulate upand down as band 240 is rotated. Rollers 246 guide band 240 upwardly andguide tracks 1520 guide band 240 downwardly forming concave areas 1510.The movement of band 240 through rollers 246 and guide tracks 1520appears to simulate the motion of a river with rapids.

A mechanical indicator 2140 can be mounted to housing 1001 between poolpanel 2120 and display 240. Indicator 2140 can appear to be a boat suchas a rescue boat or a fishing boat. As shown in FIG. 23, indicator 2140may be coupled to a positioning mechanism 72 by a bracket 74.Positioning mechanism 72 may be located within the confines of housing1001. Positioning mechanism 72 may comprise a worm gear 78 rotatable byan actuator 80. In at least one embodiment, actuator 80 is attached to afirst wheel 84. Worm gear 78 may be attached to a second wheel 86. Adrive belt 82 may rotate around the first wheel 84 and second wheel 86,thereby connecting actuator 80 and worm gear 78. Positioning mechanism72 may communicate with a controller 360, which may store informationregarding pre-determined positions of band 240. Sensors 88 and 90 may bein communication with controller 360 and may be provided to allowcontroller 360 to detect the position of indicator 2140. Other devicesmay be used to detect the position of the indicator, such as opticalreaders (not shown).

Lights 2145 can be mounted on indicator 2140. Lights 2145 can be anysuitable illumination device such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) andcan be connected with and controlled by controller 360.

With reference now to FIGS. 21 and 22, a game winning outcome 2135 canbe indicated by moving band 240 and indicator 2140, such that one of theprize positions 2125 is aligned above indicator 2140. Lights 2145 canfurther be illuminated to draw attention to the game winning outcome. Inthe example shown in FIG. 21, indicator 2140 indicates indicia 2135having a value of 20 credits as the game winning outcome.

Player input devices 2160 and 2165 can be mounted to housing 1001.Player input devices 2160 and 2165 can be buttons. Player input devices2160 and 2165 can be used by a game player to control the position ofindicator 2140. Player input device 2160 may move indicator 2140 to theleft and player input device 2165 may move indicator 2140 to the right.After a player moves indicator 2140 using player input devices 2160 and2165, controller 360 then moves and stops band 240 to select one of theindicia 2130 to be awarded.

A method of operating gaming device 2100 of FIG. 21 is shown in FIG. 24.In method 2400, a player places a wager on a gaming device at step 2402.At step 2404, the player plays a base game on a gaming device such asprimary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). At decision 2406, method 2400 checksto see if the game outcome determined in step 2404 is an outcomequalifying the player to play a bonus game. If not, method 2400 proceedsto step 2408 and notifies the player of the game outcome determined instep 2404, and returns to step 2402.

If it is determined in step 2406 that the game outcome of step 2404qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 2400 proceeds to step2410. At step 2410, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 2412,gaming display 2102 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and indicator 2140. Other lights and sounds may also be activated tomake the event more exciting to the player and those around the player,as well as to call attention to the device.

Method 2400 then proceeds to step 2414 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 2416, indicator 2140 is moved. Band 240 is stopped atstep 2418. Indicator 2140 can be stopped by controller 360 at step 2420.Method 2400 then awards any prizes indicated by the combination of theindicator 2140 and band 240 to the player in step 2422.

Another method of operating gaming device 2100 of FIG. 21 is shown inFIG. 25. In method 2500, a player places a wager on a gaming device atstep 2402. At step 2404, the player plays a base game on a gamingdevice, such as primary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). At decision 2406,method 2500 checks to see if the game outcome determined in step 2404 isan outcome qualifying the player to play a bonus game. If not, method2500 proceeds to step 2408 and notifies the player of the game outcomedetermined in step 2404, and returns to step 2402.

If it is determined in step 2406 that the game outcome of step 2404qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 2500 proceeds to step2410. At step 2410, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 2412,gaming display 2102 is activated. This may include activation of band240 and indicator 2140. Other lights and sounds may also be activated tomake the event more exciting to the player and those around the player,as well as to call attention to the device.

Method 2500 then proceeds to step 2414 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 2416, indicator 2140 is moved. Indicator 2140 can bystopped by controller 360 at step 2502. Band 240 is stopped at step2504. Method 2500 then awards any prizes indicated by the combination ofthe indicator 2140 and band 240 to the player in step 2422.

Vehicle Game Embodiment

Turning to FIGS. 26 and 27, an additional embodiment of a gaming device2600 according to the present invention is shown. Gaming device 2600 hasa gaming display 2602. Gaming device 2600 can be a bonus game that canbe mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary gaming device202 as shown in FIG. 7. A front panel 1503 is mounted to housing 1001.

Game display 2602 can have a prize band 240 that is supported forrotational movement by rollers 246 and guide tracks 1520. Band 240 canhave a display surface 241. Band 240 can be a flexible belt. Band 240can be backlit by lights 330 that are mounted in a housing 328 as waspreviously described. Various indicia 2630 can be displayed at prizepositions 2625 on display surface 241. Prize positions 2625 can simulateor appear to be trees printed on display surface 241.

Gaming device 2600 can have a game theme of a car driving on a road or arace track. Gaming device 2600 can include various road features, suchas a road 2610, hills 2612, dips in the road 2615, grass or field areas2618 and road signs 2620. Display surface 241 can be printed with thevarious road features.

Hills 2612 can be formed in road 2610 by band 240 passing over rollers246. Dips 2615 can be formed by band 240 moving through guide tracks1520 causing band 240 to be guided downwardly. Rollers 246 and guidetracks 1520 can cause band 240 to move or undulate up and down as band240 is rotated. Rollers 246 guide band 240 upwardly and guide tracks1520 can guide band 240 downwardly forming concave areas 1510. Themovement of band 240 through rollers 246 and guide tracks 1520 mayappear to simulate the motion of a winding road with dips and hills.

A mechanical indicator 2640 can be mounted to housing 1001 in front ofband 240. Indicator 2640 can appear to be a vehicle such as a car ortruck. Indicator 2640 can be coupled to and moved by a positioningmechanism 72 through a bracket 74. Indicator 2640 and positioningmechanism 72 can operate the same as previously described in FIG. 23.The position of indicator 2640 can be controlled by controller 360 andactuator 80. Lights 2645 can be mounted on indicator 2640. Lights 2645can be light emitting diodes (LEDs) and can be connected with andcontrolled by controller 360.

With continued reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, a game-winning outcome 2635can be indicated by moving band 240 and indicator 2640, such that one ofthe prize positions 2625 is aligned above indicator 2640. Lights 2645can further be illuminated to draw attention to the game-winningoutcome. In the example shown in FIG. 26, indicator 2640 indicates theindicia 2635, having a value of 50 credits as the game-winning outcome.The movement of band 240 behind a car-shaped indicator 2640 can simulatethe motion of a car traveling down a road.

Player input devices 2660 and 2665 can be mounted to housing 1001.Player input devices 2660 and 2665 can be buttons. Player input devices2660 and 2665 can be used by a game player to control the position ofindicator 2640. Player input device 2660 may cause indicator 2640 tomove to the left and player input device 2665 may cause indicator 2640to move to the right. After a player moves indicator 2640 using playerinput devices 2660 and 2665, controller 360 may then move and stop band240 to select one of indicia 2630 to be awarded. Gaming device 2600 canbe operated using the same methods shown in FIGS. 24 and 25.

Snaking Band Embodiment

FIG. 28 shows another embodiment of a gaming device 2800 in accordancewith the present invention. Gaming device 2800 has a gaming display2802. Gaming device 2800 can be a bonus game that can be mounted in ahousing 1001 in conjunction with a primary gaming device 202 as shown inFIG. 7. A front panel 1503 is mounted to housing 1001.

Gaming display 2802 can have a prize band 2810 that is significantlylonger than band 240 of FIGS. 7 and 8. Band 2810 is supported forrotational movement by rollers 246. Band 2810 can have a display surface2812. Band 2810 can be a flexible belt. Band 2810 can be backlit bylights 330 that are mounted in a housing 328 as was previouslydescribed. Band 2810 can be rotated by controller 360 causing actuator310 to be rotated by driven roller 320. Source 362 and detector 364 canprovide controller 360 with a position signal about the position of band2810.

Gaming display 2802 can have band guide section 2820 that causes theband to move back and forth or to move in a snake-like manner. Bandguide section 2820 can have several rollers 2830 that band 2810 rollsover. The band can be woven around rollers 2830. The use of band guidesection 2820 within housing 1001 allows for a longer length of band2810. Because band 2810 is longer a larger number of indicia can bedisplayed on band 2810. Band 2810 can be used in place of band 240 inthe gaming device embodiments that were previously described. Rollers2830 can also be arranged in band guide section 2820 such that the bandmoves up and down.

Reel to Reel Embodiment

FIG. 29 shows another embodiment of a gaming device 2900 in accordancewith the present invention. Gaming device 2900 has a gaming display2902. Gaming device 2900 can be a bonus game that can be mounted in ahousing 1001 in conjunction with a primary gaming device 202 as shown inFIG. 7. A front panel 1503 is mounted to housing 1001.

Gaming display 2902 can have rolls or reels of a wide belt of flexiblematerial 2910 that is significantly longer than prize band 240 of FIGS.7 and 8. Wide belt 2910 is supported for movement between end reels 2920and 2930. Wide belt 2910 is wound on reels 2920 and 2930. Wide belt 2910can have a display surface 2912. Wide belt 2910 can be backlit by lights330 that are mounted in a housing 328 as was previously described. Widebelt 2910 can contain a wide variety of indicia (not shown) as waspreviously described in conjunction with band 240.

Reel 2920 is driven by an actuator 2928. Actuator 2928 may be any numberof suitable actuators, such as motors, including stepper motors, gearmotors, and servo motors. Actuator 2928 may rotate a shaft 2927 inconnection with a wheel 2926. A belt 2924 may link wheel 2926 to anotherwheel 2922. Wheel 2922 may be connected to reel 2920. Rotation of shaft2927 drives wheel 2926 which in turn drives wheel 2922 and reel 2920.Therefore, actuator 2928 can rotate reel 2920. The rotation of actuator2928 can be reversed such that reel 2920 can be rotated in bothdirections. Optionally, an idler wheel or pulley (not shown) can beincluded on the opposing side of a portion of wide belt 2910 in order totake up any slack and maintain proper tension on wide belt 2910.

The other reel 2930 is driven by an actuator 2938. Actuator 2938 may beany number of suitable actuators, such as motors, including steppermotors, gear motors, and servo motors. Actuator 2938 may rotate a shaft2937 in connection with a wheel 2936. A belt 2934 may link wheel 2936 toanother wheel 2932. Wheel 2932 may be connected to reel 2930. Rotationof shaft 2937 drives wheel 2936 which in turn drives wheel 2932 and reel2930. Therefore, actuator 2938 can rotate reel 2930. The rotation ofactuator 2938 can be reversed such that reel 2930 can be rotated in bothdirections.

Actuators 2928 and 2938 are in communication with and can be controlledby controller 360. Source 362 and detector 364 can provide controller360 with a position signal about the position of wide belt 2910.

Controller 360 can cause actuators 2928 and 2938 to rotate in acoordinated manner such that wide belt 2910 passes over rollers 246 andcan be viewed through a transparent window 2950. Wide belt 2910 would beunwound from reel 2920 and wound on reel 2930. When wide belt 2910approaches the end of its length, source 362 and detector 364 providecontroller 360 with a signal that the end of the wide belt 2910 isapproaching. Controller 360 then reverses the rotational direction ofreels 2920 and 2930 such that wide belt 2910 is unwound from reel 2930and wound onto reel 2920. The direction of rotation of the reels wouldbe reversed each time that the end of the length of wide belt 2910 isapproaching.

The use of reels 2920 and 2930 allows for a longer length of wide beltof flexible material 2910 to be stored on gaming device 2900 than forthe continuous (i.e. endless) band 240 described previously. Becausewide belt 2910 is longer, a larger number of indicia can be displayed onwide belt 2910. Wide belt 2910 can be used in place of band 240 in thegaming device embodiments that were previously described.

A method of operating gaming device 2900 of FIG. 29 is shown in FIG. 30.In method 3000, a player places a wager on a gaming device at step 2402.At step 2404, the player plays a base game on a gaming device, such asprimary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). At decision 2406, method 3000 checksto see if the game outcome determined in step 2404 is an outcomequalifying the player to play a bonus game. If not, method 3000 proceedsto step 2408 and notifies the player of the game outcome determined instep 2404, and returns to step 2402.

If it is determined in step 2406 that the game outcome of step 2404qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 3000 proceeds to step2410. At step 2410, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 2412,gaming display 2902 is activated. This may include rotation of reels2920 and 2930, movement of wide belt 2910 and activation of lights 330.Other lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event moreexciting to the player and those around the player, as well as to callattention to the device.

Method 3000 then proceeds to step 2414 where wide belt 2910 is moved. Atdecision step 3002, controller 360 checks to see if wide belt 2910 is atthe end of its length. If controller 360 detects the end of wide belt2910 is approaching, method 3000 proceeds to step 3004 where therotational direction of reels 2920 and 2930 is reversed. If controller360 does not detect the end of wide belt 2910 approaching, method 3000proceeds to step 3006 where wide belt 2910 is stopped. At step 3008, aportion of back lights 330 are illuminated behind wide belt 2910 suchthat a game winning outcome is indicated. Method 3000 then awards anyprizes indicated to the player in step 3010.

In another method of playing gaming device 2900, wide belt 2910 may beadvanced in one direction during a game sequence and then rewound whengaming device 2900 is not being played.

Various Band Shapes Embodiment

FIG. 31 shows another embodiment of a gaming device 3100 in accordancewith the present invention. Gaming device 3100 has a gaming displaydevice 3102. Gaming device 3100 can be a bonus game that can be mountedin a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primary game 202 as shown inFIG. 7. A front panel 1503 is mounted to housing 1001.

Gaming display device 3102 is similar to gaming display 2602 of FIG. 27.Gaming display 3102 has a rotatable band 240 that can be fashioned intoa wide variety of shapes and sizes. Band 240 may be formed into sloped,concave, convex, arched and flat band shape. The various band shapes areproduced using guide tracks 1520 and rollers 246.

For example in FIG. 31, a hidden U-shaped section 3110 is formed byrollers 246 and guide tracks 1520. Hidden section 3110 could be used tohide various indicia from a game player. A convex section 3120 is formedby guide tracks 1520. A concave section 3140 is formed by guide tracks1520. A flat section 3130 is formed between guide tracks 1520 and roller246. Therefore, band 240 may further be formed into a wide variety ofshapes and sizes using guide tracks 1520 and rollers 246.

Simulated Reel Embodiment

With reference now to FIGS. 32-34, an additional embodiment of a gamingdevice 3200 according to the present invention is shown. Gaming device3200 has a gaming display device 3202. Gaming device 3200 can be a bonusgame that can be mounted in a housing 1001 in conjunction with a primarygaming device 202 as shown in FIG. 7. Alternatively, gaming device 3200may be provided as a substitute of the primary games of previousembodiments. For example, gaming device 3200 may be a primary game suchas game 14 shown in FIG. 1 a or primary game device 202 shown in FIG. 7.A front panel 1503 is mounted to housing 1001 and has a window 3212. Apayline 3225 may be located on window 3212.

Gaming display 3202 can have a prize band 240 that is conveyed by idleor support rollers 246. Band 240 can have an outside surface 240A, aninner surface 240B, sides 240C and 240D and a display surface 241. Band240 can be a single flexible belt or may be a plurality of belts. Band240 can have a planar display surface 241 that is visible to a gameplayer through window 3212. Various indicia 3214 can be arranged in rows3260 and in three columns 3270, 3272 and 3274 on display surface 241.Indicia 3214 can resemble the indicia typically found on slot machinegame reels such as “7”, “oranges”, “lemons”, “bar” and “bar bar”. Anytype of indicia may be used. Indicia 3214 can be printed on band 240.Payline 3225 may indicate a row of indicia as a game outcome. Each rowof indicia may include at least three indicia in order to simulate threeadjacent reels.

As seen in FIG. 32, one whole row 3260 of indicia are visible in window3212 along with a small portion of the rows above and below the visiblerow.

Controller 360 can rotatably control the position of band 240 usingactuator or stepper motor 310 driving driven roller 320 in the samemanner as previously described for FIG. 7. The position of band 240 canbe monitored by controller 360 using a sensor formed by source 362 anddetector 364. The band 240 may be a continuous band, as previouslydescribed for FIG. 7 or the band may extend between first and second endreels as described for FIG. 29.

Gaming display 3202 can include a large wheel or roller 3210 that guidesband 240 to roll over roller 3210. Roller 3210 would be supported forrotational movement on both sides of roller 3210 using a conventionalrotation mechanism such as bearings. Roller 3210 guides band 240 to forma reel portion 3208. Reel portion 3208 may simulate the reels of a slotmachine. Roller 3210 may guide band 240 into a semi-circular or convexshape in the area of the window. Roller 3210 can also guide band 240into other shapes similar to a reel. Roller 3210 can be an idle rolleror roller 3210 may be driven by an actuator.

Alternatively, the guide track 1520 of FIG. 16 could be used in place ofroller 3210. Guide track 1520 would be shaped in a convex shape andcould be used to guide band 240 into a reel type shape in the area ofthe window, i.e. in the area of the band that is displayed to theplayer.

With specific reference to FIG. 34, gaming device 3200 may furtherinclude a band braking mechanism 3230. Band braking mechanism 3230 mayinclude a linear actuator 3232 that is connected by a shaft 3234 to amoveable caliper 3236. Moveable caliper 3236 has a braking surface 3236Aand is located adjacent to band inner surface 240B. A stationary caliper3238 has a braking surface 3238A and is located adjacent to band outersurface 240A. Linear actuator 3232 is connected to and controlled bycontroller 360.

Controller 360 may direct linear actuator 3232 to move moveable caliper3236 causing braking surfaces 3236A and 3238A to come into contact withband 240. Band braking mechanism 3230 can be used to create differenteffects on the motion of band 240. For example, when band 240 is inmotion, applying band braking mechanism 3230 can cause band 240 to jump,vibrate or shutter to simulate the motion of a reel type slot machinemechanism.

Alternatively, actuator 310 may be reversed slightly just before band240 stops causing band to 240 to vibrate and shutter before stopping.

A game winning outcome 1580 can be indicated by the indicia 3214 thatare shown on payline 3225. Any credits won may be shown on credit meter3240. In an alternative embodiment, indicia 3214 may be backlit by a setof lights (not shown) behind band 240.

Controller 360 can control and select the movement and position of band240 and further can control the application of band braking mechanism3220.

Band 240 can have a long path length allowing a large number ofdifferent types of indicia to be displayed. Band 240 may have longsinuous or snake like shape that further increases the path length andthe space available to display various indicia. A standard gaming reelhas a small surface area and is limited in the number of indicia thatcan be displayed.

In one embodiment, each row of the display surface 241 provides acombination of indicia that indicates a game outcome with all possiblegame outcomes having at least one row on the display surface 241 thatindicates the respective game outcome. For example, a non-winning gameoutcome may be represented by three different indicia, whereas a winningoutcome may be represented by a pair of matching indicia such as a pairof lemons. In one embodiment, at least one game outcome has several rowsthat indicate the game outcome such that if there are M game outcomes,there are N rows where N is greater than M. For example, a first rowwith a pair of lemons and a second row with a pair of oranges may bothindicate a first winning outcome. Similarly, there may be many ways torepresent three non-matching indicia in order to indicate a non-winningoutcome. In one embodiment, every possible game outcome has multiplerows that can indicate the respective game outcome such that N will begreater than 2M. The selection of which row to indicate a game outcomeis performed by the controller 360.

A method of operating gaming device 3200 of FIGS. 32-34 is shown in FIG.35. In method 3500, a player places a wager on a gaming device at step3502. At step 3504, the player plays a base game on a gaming device suchas primary gaming device 202 (FIG. 7). At decision 3506, method 3500checks to see if the game outcome determined in step 3504 is an outcomequalifying the player to play a bonus game. If not, method 3500 proceedsto step 3508 and notifies the player of the game outcome determined instep 3504, and returns to step 3502.

If it is determined in step 3506 that the game outcome of step 3504qualifies the player for a bonus game, method 3500 proceeds to step3510. At step 3510, the bonus game outcome is determined. At step 3512,gaming display 3502 is activated. This may include activation of band240. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event moreexciting to the player and those around the player, as well as to callattention to the device.

Method 3500 then proceeds to step 3514 where band 240 is moved orrotated. At step 3516, band 240 is slowed or braked using brakingmechanism 3230 and then stopped. The game outcome is indicated bypayline 3225 (FIG. 32). Method 3500 then awards any prizes to the playerin step 3520.

As described above, the gaming device 3200 may be provided as a primaryor base game. FIG. 36 shows a method 3550 which is the method 3500 ofFIG. 35 modified for base game or primary game play. At step 3501, aplayer places a wager and initiates a game. At step 3503, the gamingdevice 3200 determines a game outcome, for example by generating arandom number and comparing the generated number to a paytable. At step3512, the display device is activated and the band is moved at step3514. At step 3515, the controller 360 selects an appropriate row forindicating the game outcome. The controller 360 brakes and stops theband at step 3516 when the selected row is in a position to be displayedto the player. The game outcome is thus displayed to the player at step3518. At step 3520, any prizes are awarded to the player. Alternatively,a bonus game may be triggered and played prior to awarding any prizes.

CONCLUSION

It can thus be realized that certain embodiments of the presentinvention provide a highly attractive and entertaining device fordisplaying prizes. Certain embodiments of the present invention furtherprovide a moveable indicator to indicate a bonus prize. Thus, certainembodiments of the present invention can easily catch patrons' attentionand invite patrons to play the game. Certain embodiments may furthercause players to play longer because the display device enhances theanticipation, stimulation, and excitement experienced by players.

Other embodiments add intermediate steps between the occurrence of thebonus event and the awarding of the bonus prize to add an additionalelement of anticipation, surprise, and excitement for the players. Forexample, an indicator may indicate another symbol representing anotherprize to be added to the player's total prize. An indicator may indicateanother symbol representing a multiplier, which may be used to multiplythe player's prize.

Although the description above contains many specifications, theseshould not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but asmerely providing illustrations of some of the present embodiments ofthis invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by theexamples given.

1. A gaming apparatus comprising: (A) a display device comprising adisplay surface, the display surface being moveable, the display surfacecomprising a plurality of indicia; (B) at least one roller, the rollersupporting the display surface such that the display surface moves overthe roller, the roller and display surface simulating a reel; (C) adisplay device actuator coupled with the display surface and configuredto move the display surface; and (D) a controller in communication withthe display device actuator, the controller configured to position thedisplay surface such that at least one of the indicia appearing on thedisplay surface conveys a game outcome.
 2. The gaming apparatus of claim1, wherein the indicia simulate a slot machine reel.
 3. The gamingapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a braking mechanism coupledwith the display surface and adapted to brake the display surface. 4.The gaming apparatus of claim 3 wherein the braking mechanism may beapplied to the display surface to provide an effect to the braking ofthe display surface.
 5. The gaming apparatus of claim 4 wherein theeffect comprises at least one of jump, vibrate or shutter.
 6. The gamingapparatus of claim 1 wherein the display device comprises an elongateband and wherein the display surface is provided on the elongate band.7. The gaming apparatus of claim 6 wherein the elongate band iscontinuous.
 8. The gaming apparatus of claim 6 wherein the elongate bandextends between first and second end reels and wherein the roller isdisposed between the first and second end reels.
 9. A gaming apparatuscomprising: (A) a display device comprising a display surface, thedisplay surface being moveable, the display surface comprising aplurality of indicia; (B) at least one guide track holding the displaysurface, the at least one guide track being adapted to guide the shapeof the display surface wherein the at least one guide track and displaysurface simulate a reel; (C) a display device actuator in communicationwith the display surface and configured to move the display surface; and(D) a controller in communication with the display device actuator, thecontroller configured to position the display surface such that at leastone of the indicia appearing on the display surface conveys a gameoutcome.
 10. The gaming apparatus of claim 9, further comprising abraking mechanism coupled with the display surface and adapted to brakethe display surface.
 11. The gaming apparatus of claim 10 wherein thebraking mechanism may be applied to the display surface to provide aneffect to the braking of the display surface.
 12. The gaming apparatusof claim 11 wherein the effect comprises at least one of jump, vibrateor shutter.
 13. The gaming apparatus of claim 9 wherein the displaydevice comprises an elongate band and wherein the display surface isprovided on the elongate band.
 14. The gaming apparatus of claim 13wherein the elongate band is continuous.
 15. The gaming apparatus ofclaim 13 wherein the elongate band extends between first and second endreels and wherein the at least one guide track is disposed between thefirst and second end reels.
 16. A gaming device comprising: (A) aninterface allowing a player to place a wager and play a game; (B) adisplay device comprising: (a) an elongate band; (b) a display surfaceprovided on the elongate band; and (c) a plurality of indicia on thedisplay surface, the indicia arranged in a plurality of rows, theindicia of each row being configured to indicate a game outcome; and (C)a controller adapted to: (a) determine a game outcome; (b) select a rowof the display surface that indicates the determined game outcome; and(c) display the selected row to the player.
 17. The gaming device ofclaim 16 further comprising shaping means for shaping the elongate bandin a region of the display surface that is displayed to the player. 18.The gaming device of claim 17 wherein the shaping means comprises atleast one roller for forming a convex shape in the elongate band. 19.The gaming device of claim 17 wherein the shaping means comprises atleast one guide track for forming a convex shape in the elongate band.20. The gaming device of claim 16 comprising M game outcomes, whereinthe display surface comprises N rows, wherein N is greater than M. 21.The gaming device of claim 20 wherein the display surface comprises aplurality of rows that indicate the same game outcome.
 22. The gamingdevice of claim 21 wherein the controller selects one of the rows thatindicates the determined game outcome.
 23. The gaming device of claim 16further comprising a display device actuator in communication with thedisplay surface and configured to move the display surface, wherein thecontroller is in communication with the display device actuator andwherein the controller is configured to control the display deviceactuator to position the selected row such that the selected row isvisible to the player.
 24. The gaming device of claim 23 furthercomprising a housing and at least one window in the housing, wherein thecontroller is configured to position the selected row in the window. 25.The gaming device of claim 16 wherein each row comprises at least threeindicia which in combination indicate a game outcome.
 26. A method ofplaying a game comprising: (A) allowing a player to place a wager andplay a game; (B) determining a game outcome; (C) selecting a row of adisplay surface that indicates the game outcome; and (D) advancing thedisplay surface such that the selected row is displayed to a player. 27.The method of claim 26 wherein the display surface comprises a pluralityof rows that indicate the game outcome, and wherein selecting a row ofthe display surface comprises selecting one of the plurality of rowsthat indicate the game outcome.
 28. The method of claim 26 wherein thedisplay surface is provided on an elongate band, wherein the elongateband is supported by a plurality of rollers and wherein advancing thedisplay surface comprises actuating at least one of the plurality ofrollers.
 29. The method of claim 26 further comprising shaping thedisplay surface in a region of the display surface that is displayed tothe player such that the display surface simulates a reel.
 30. Themethod of claim 29 wherein shaping the display surface comprises shapingthe display surface into a convex shape.